Heat Stress (Heat-Related Illness)

Heat is the number one weather-related killer in the United States, resulting in hundreds of fatalities each year. On average, excessive heat claims more lives each year than floods, lightning, tornadoes and hurricanes combined. When the body heats too quickly to cool itself safely, or when there is excessive fluid or salt loss through dehydration or sweating, body temperature rises and heat-related illness may develop. Research has shown that the severity of heat disorders tends to increase with age. Environmental conditions that cause heat cramps in an otherwise healthy teenager may result in heat exhaustion in someone in their forties, and heat stroke in a person over 60 years of age.

What Information Does the New Jersey EPHT Network Contain About Heat Stress?

The NJ EPHT program maintains data on heat-related inpatient hospitalizations and emergency department visits by county, age, race, and, sex of New Jersey residents for the months of May through September.

The New Jersey Department of Health maintains a web page on extreme heat and information to promote health and safety during extreme heat events. In addition, the site also contains resources for work-related heat stress prevention, as well as information on heat stress in older adults and other sensitive groups.